We have also hired a doula for the birth. Yana Katzap-Nackman is another well-respected birth professional in the area, sitting on the board for DONA (Doulas of North America), serving as the VP elect for DASC (Doula Association of Southern California) and teaching childbirth and postpartum wellness classes, such as 'Birthing from Within' and 'Happiest Baby on the Block' out of her home here in Mar Vista (our neighborhood!). She comes from an empowering place of feeling like this is her mission in life, having left the film industry after 10 years of solid income and 'security.' She has attended close to 100 births in her short span of being a certified doula and is highly trained. We are both so excited to be working with her and we are lucky that she has already attended a number of births with our midwife! Doulas are a wonderful way for women to have objective support at their births. They are trained with many different tools to help a woman through labor and research has proven that they reduce the risk of cesarean section, reduce the need for pain medications, and increase the chances of having a normal vaginal birth. These women serve as roots for this winding, crazy tree that is labor where branches can take the working mother physically and psychically to many depths and heights. She knows how labors are like snowflakes, every single one different, and has the ability to deal with each one appropriately. She comes prepared with a suitcase full of tools--essential oils, massagers, aromatherapy candles, honey sticks, music, ideas for birthing positions, books just to read aloud to pass time, and a birthing ball just to name a few!
No comments:
Post a Comment